Years from now, when we’re comparing the number of Google, Apple and Microsoft branded stores around the world, let’s remember that, for Google, it all began in late September 2011 with a small retail mini-store in London.

According to the Evening Standard, Google’s mini-store is called “Chromezone” and is located inside a PC World store. It’s only 285 square feet and sells Google Chromebook computers along with related accessories.

In the article, Google UK head of consumer marketing Arvind Desikan says that the mini-store is just the start of Google’s retail plans.

It is our first foray into physical retail. This is a new channel for us and it’s still very, very early days. It’s something Google is going to play with and see where it leads.

The article goes on to say that Google will open another mini-store on October 7th in Essex and “more pilot shops are planned around the world in the coming months.”

Related Topics: Channel: Mobile | Google: Chrome OS | Google: Marketing | Google: Stores

About The Author: Matt McGee is Editor-In-Chief of Search Engine Land. His news career includes time spent in TV, radio, and print journalism. His web career continues to include a small number of SEO and social media consulting clients, as well as regular speaking engagements at marketing events around the U.S. He blogs at Small Business Search Marketing and can be found on Twitter at @MattMcGee and/or on Google Plus. You can read Matt's disclosures on his personal blog. See more articles by Matt McGee

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